Dubois Stops Hrgović in Epic Battle

In a thrilling heavyweight contest, former WBA regular champion Daniel Dubois (21-2, 20 KOs) claimed a dominant eighth-round TKO victory over mandatory IBF challenger Filip Hrgović (17-1, 13 KOs) to seize the vacant IBF interim heavyweight title.

The fight took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, serving as the chief support bout before the main event featuring Zhang Zhilei against Deontay Wilder. Heading into the match, Hrgović was the favorite with odds of 1-3. In the early rounds, Hrgović established control, landing heavier and more accurate punches. However, Dubois opened a cut above Hrgović’s right eye, causing persistent bleeding that impaired the Croatian’s vision and gradually tilted the fight in Dubois’ favor.

In the seventh round, Dubois began to land frequently with powerful shots, sending Hrgović reeling. The eighth round saw Dubois maintain his aggressive momentum, leaving Hrgović on the defensive and absorbing significant punishment. The referee ultimately stepped in to stop the contest at 57 seconds of the eighth round, recognizing Hrgović’s inability to continue.

With this triumph, the 26-year-old Dubois improves his professional record to 21 wins and two losses, with 20 of those victories coming by way of knockout. This win potentially sets up Dubois as a September opponent for Anthony Joshua (28-3, 25 KOs), another British fighter, who would generate substantial interest in a domestic showdown.